Beta-2-Transferrin (asialotransferrin)

Possible in serum and nasal fluids, please indicate preference in the comments box.

B2TRS in serum

B2TRO in nasal fluid

Keep refrigerated and send immediately after collection.

Beta-2-transferrin, also known as asialotransferrin, is a protein that plays an important role in medical diagnostics, mainly in identifying cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. This protein is a specific variant of transferrin, a protein that transports iron in the blood. What makes beta-2-transferrin unique is its lack of sialic acid (asialo), which makes it different from the more common forms of transferrin.

Beta-2-transferrin is found almost exclusively in cerebrospinal fluid and perilymph (the fluid of the inner ear). This specific distribution makes it a valuable marker for detecting leakage of these fluids. For example, if a patient shows symptoms of cerebrospinal fluid leakage due to trauma, surgery, or illness, the presence of beta-2-transferrin in excreted fluid (such as from the nose or ear) may confirm that the fluid is indeed CSF.

The test for beta-2-transferrin is particularly useful because it is highly specific; other proteins or body fluids will not usually give a positive result, making it a reliable indicator of CSF leakage. Use of this test has important implications for the treatment and management of patients with possible CSF leakage, and helps determine the need for further diagnostic procedures or surgical interventions.